Whirlpool WRS588FIHZ04 – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-06-17 – A consumer reported a laceration hazard involving a Whirlpool refrigerator after a small metal sliver became embedded in their hand while retrieving ice. The incident, logged on May 23, 2026, was filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) SaferProducts.gov database, which collects reports of potentially dangerous consumer products.

Product Details

Brand Name: Whirlpool
Manufacturer: Whirlpool Corporation
Model: WRS588FIHZ04
Incident Report Number: 6069892
Severity Type Name: First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
Severity Type ID: 7

Incident Overview

According to the CPSC report (ID 6069892, available at https://www.saferproducts.gov/PublicSearch/Detail?ReportId=6069892), the consumer was cupping their hands to get ice from the refrigerator's built-in icemaker when a sliver became embedded in their finger. The consumer stated that had they not been brushing off their hands over the sink, the sliver could have fallen into their drink and been ingested, posing a risk of injury to the throat or gastrointestinal tract.

Upon disassembling the icemaker, the consumer examined the rotating teeth that eject ice. Under magnification, they observed that the stampings forming the teeth were imprecise, with visible burrs and stress concentrations. The sliver appeared to be a non-magnetic stainless steel, likely 300-series, matching the material of the teeth. The consumer noted that the burr presumably broke off from the rotating teeth, causing the laceration.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The primary risk is laceration or puncture from a metal burr breaking free during normal use. The sliver can embed in skin, as happened here, or if ingested, could cause internal cuts to the mouth, throat, or digestive tract. The sharp, non-magnetic stainless steel fragments are difficult to detect in food or drink.

Who Might Be Affected: Any person using the icemaker, including children or guests, is at risk. The consumer noted the sliver could have ended up in a drink, posing a hazard to anyone consuming ice from the unit.

Warning Signs: Visible burrs or rough edges on the icemaker's rotating teeth, as observed under magnification by the consumer, may indicate that fragments could break off. Consumers who notice ice with metallic particles or experience unexplained cuts while handling ice should inspect the icemaker closely.

Environmental Triggers: The manufacturing defect itself—imprecise stamping of the 300-series stainless steel teeth—creates burrs that can detach over time. Repeated use of the icemaker may cause fatigue at stress concentration points, increasing the likelihood of fragments breaking off.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using the Icemaker Immediately: Until the issue is resolved, avoid using the icemaker to prevent potential injury from metal fragments.

Preserve the Product: Keep the refrigerator and any removed parts in their current condition. Do not attempt repairs or modifications that could alter evidence of the defect.

Document the Incident: Take photographs of the icemaker components, especially any visible burrs or irregularities. Save receipts, medical records, and any correspondence with the manufacturer.

Contact the Manufacturer: Reach out to Whirlpool Corporation's customer support to report the issue and inquire about inspection or replacement options. Reference CPSC report ID 6069892.

Report to the CPSC: File a report at SaferProducts.gov if you experience a similar incident. You can search for existing reports, including ID 6069892, to see if others have reported the same problem.

Check for Recalls: Monitor the CPSC website (cpsc.gov) for any recall announcements related to Whirlpool refrigerators or icemakers.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage may want to speak with a product liability attorney about their options.

Manufacturer's Response

The manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California-based product liability law firm representing consumers injured by defective products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and legal options. If you or a loved one was injured by Whirlpool WRS588FIHZ04 or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.